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Cora Crafts Mystery #2
No Charm Intended
Settling into her new life and career in small-town Indigo Gap, North Carolina, Cora Chevalier is preparing to host a “wildcrafting” retreat at her Victorian home. But a specter hangs over the venture when beloved local nanny Gracie Wyke goes missing. Amidst leading their guests in nature hikes, rock painting and making clay charms, Cora and her business partner, Jane, team up with Gracie’s boyfriend, Paul, to launch their own investigation into her disappearance when the local police prove unhelpful.
Cora and her crafters take Paul in, believing he is in danger and not the suspect police have made him out to be. However as they uncover new clues and a body turns up at a local abandoned amusement park, Cora and Jane begin to question their decision. With more questions than answers arising, is Cora crafty enough to untangle a knot that could put an innocent in jail—and permanently destroy her reputation?
Cora and her crafters take Paul in, believing he is in danger and not the suspect police have made him out to be. However as they uncover new clues and a body turns up at a local abandoned amusement park, Cora and Jane begin to question their decision. With more questions than answers arising, is Cora crafty enough to untangle a knot that could put an innocent in jail—and permanently destroy her reputation?
352 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published April 25, 2017
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April 21, 2017
Dollycas’s Thoughts
I could have sworn I read the first book in this series but as I started the book I realized I had not. Events from the first book are mentioned throughout this story so I did feel like I missed certain things but it did not hinder my enjoyment of this book.
Cora and Jane are hosting their second retreat in Indigo Gap featuring “wildcrafting” where the participants go on nature walks for leaves, flowers, rocks and even clay to use to make their projects. Cora receives a strange text message on her phone and soon after we learn that a nanny, Gracie Wyke, that takes care of Jane’s daughter has gone missing. Both Cora and Jane feel connected to the case and when Gracie’s boyfriend becomes a house guest they team up together in their own effort to locate the young woman. When another body is found other retreat members start to help in the investigation. They all need to be pretty crafty to stay safe and find Gracie if in fact she is still alive.
Cora and Jane have recently moved to Indigo Gap, North Carolina. Cora Chevalier, a former counselor in a woman’s shelter, has left that life behind and sunk most of her saving into a Victorian home to start a craft retreat business with her friend Jane. While Cora is the main character Jane is featured almost as much. They make a great team. Jane has a young daughter. Ruby also helps with the retreats. Each retreat brings a new set of characters. This time there was a character cross over from Mollie Cox Bryan’s Cumberland Creek Mysteries. I really enjoyed getting to know them all.
This story bring two generations together as the younger crowd introduces their elders to the world of cyber games. You know the one they are playing on their phones all the time. The police do not believe a game has anything to do with the disappearance or the murder and Cora dismisses it too until one of her younger retreat members changes her mind. Terms like the DarkNet and hacking scare the daylights out of me. With what happened in our recent election shows us that while all this new technology is great but it can also be very dangerous. This story had me really thinking about this new extension (cell phones) to so many people’s hands. It was a fantastic element of the mystery the author created. One we would not typically see in a cozy mystery.
The author blends together the crafting and the sleuthing in a balanced way. It was fun following the clues and learning about making charms and painting rocks. As the clues started to come together the mystery was the main focus especially as Cora and Jane ignore the police and get right in the middle of apprehending a murderer. Let me tell you there should have been steam rising from my kindle as fast as the pages were flying.
The characters and crafty them fit the standard of a cozy but for me this subject matter and the ending walked a very close line to more of a suspense thriller than cozy. I enjoy both genres very much but just want to warn those that like to stick to the strict definition of a cozy mystery.
I hope to read the first book, Death Among the Doilies before the third book is released. I recommend reading them in order. I am looking forward to joining Cora and Jane on many more retreats.
I could have sworn I read the first book in this series but as I started the book I realized I had not. Events from the first book are mentioned throughout this story so I did feel like I missed certain things but it did not hinder my enjoyment of this book.
Cora and Jane are hosting their second retreat in Indigo Gap featuring “wildcrafting” where the participants go on nature walks for leaves, flowers, rocks and even clay to use to make their projects. Cora receives a strange text message on her phone and soon after we learn that a nanny, Gracie Wyke, that takes care of Jane’s daughter has gone missing. Both Cora and Jane feel connected to the case and when Gracie’s boyfriend becomes a house guest they team up together in their own effort to locate the young woman. When another body is found other retreat members start to help in the investigation. They all need to be pretty crafty to stay safe and find Gracie if in fact she is still alive.
Cora and Jane have recently moved to Indigo Gap, North Carolina. Cora Chevalier, a former counselor in a woman’s shelter, has left that life behind and sunk most of her saving into a Victorian home to start a craft retreat business with her friend Jane. While Cora is the main character Jane is featured almost as much. They make a great team. Jane has a young daughter. Ruby also helps with the retreats. Each retreat brings a new set of characters. This time there was a character cross over from Mollie Cox Bryan’s Cumberland Creek Mysteries. I really enjoyed getting to know them all.
This story bring two generations together as the younger crowd introduces their elders to the world of cyber games. You know the one they are playing on their phones all the time. The police do not believe a game has anything to do with the disappearance or the murder and Cora dismisses it too until one of her younger retreat members changes her mind. Terms like the DarkNet and hacking scare the daylights out of me. With what happened in our recent election shows us that while all this new technology is great but it can also be very dangerous. This story had me really thinking about this new extension (cell phones) to so many people’s hands. It was a fantastic element of the mystery the author created. One we would not typically see in a cozy mystery.
The author blends together the crafting and the sleuthing in a balanced way. It was fun following the clues and learning about making charms and painting rocks. As the clues started to come together the mystery was the main focus especially as Cora and Jane ignore the police and get right in the middle of apprehending a murderer. Let me tell you there should have been steam rising from my kindle as fast as the pages were flying.
The characters and crafty them fit the standard of a cozy but for me this subject matter and the ending walked a very close line to more of a suspense thriller than cozy. I enjoy both genres very much but just want to warn those that like to stick to the strict definition of a cozy mystery.
I hope to read the first book, Death Among the Doilies before the third book is released. I recommend reading them in order. I am looking forward to joining Cora and Jane on many more retreats.
March 25, 2017
No Charm Intended by Mollie Cox Bryan is filled with murder, secrets and more twists and turns than a roller coaster.
The very first line in the book had me sold. As soon as I read it, I knew I was headed for a wild adventure.
A craft retreat sounds wonderful. I love the idea of seeing myself sitting at the table surrounded by friends, chatting and creating something beautiful.
Add in a gaming community, an obsessive game fan, a young woman and her disappearance and you have the ingredients for a great cozy mystery.
Ms. Bryan created a wonderful cast of characters and the idea of this mystery taking place during a craft retreat makes for an even more intriguing story.
I am patiently waiting for the next book.
I voluntarily read an ARC of this book provided by the publisher and NetGalley.
The very first line in the book had me sold. As soon as I read it, I knew I was headed for a wild adventure.
A craft retreat sounds wonderful. I love the idea of seeing myself sitting at the table surrounded by friends, chatting and creating something beautiful.
Add in a gaming community, an obsessive game fan, a young woman and her disappearance and you have the ingredients for a great cozy mystery.
Ms. Bryan created a wonderful cast of characters and the idea of this mystery taking place during a craft retreat makes for an even more intriguing story.
I am patiently waiting for the next book.
I voluntarily read an ARC of this book provided by the publisher and NetGalley.
April 17, 2017
Cora, Jane, and Ruby are hosting their second Crafts retreat at their Victorian mansion. They call it a Wildcrafting retreat. The crafts discuss are pottery charms, nature walks, painted rocks and basket weaving. A good portion of the book describes the crafts. The mystery is secondary. As the three are greeting the participants, the police arrived to question Jane as her Nanny, Gracie is missing. After a friend is found murder, Cora invited Paul to stay at the house. What has happened to Gracie?
The crafts hints are included.
Disclosure: I a received a free copy from Kensington Books through NetGalley for an honest review. I would like to thank them for this opportunity to read and review the book.The opinions expressed are my own.
The crafts hints are included.
Disclosure: I a received a free copy from Kensington Books through NetGalley for an honest review. I would like to thank them for this opportunity to read and review the book.The opinions expressed are my own.
March 19, 2017
I found this to be an enjoyable read with characters that are starting to grow and find their own in their business and new life. The story itself was well written, with a steady pace and what I thought was a good mystery. I will be back to see what Cora and Jane are up to in the next book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy provided by the publisher through Netgalley. This did not influence my opinion and the thoughts expressed are my own.
The expected publication date for this book is April 25, 2017. At the publisher's request a full review will be posted on my blog after that date.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy provided by the publisher through Netgalley. This did not influence my opinion and the thoughts expressed are my own.
The expected publication date for this book is April 25, 2017. At the publisher's request a full review will be posted on my blog after that date.
March 20, 2017
No Charm Intended is the second book in Mollie Cox Bryan’s Cora Crafts Mystery series. The writing style flows smoothly at an even pace and the book is an easy read. The author is talented in descriptive writing and I felt like I was there, watching the crafting activities taking place. The mystery is well plotted, the characters are well rounded and relatable, and the book has enough suspects, twists, and turns to make it difficult to figure out whom the killer is. There are craft instructions and supply lists at the end of the book. I recommend this series and look forward to reading more in this series.
Cora Chevalier is a former counselor in a woman’s shelter who loves crafts and is a successful crafting blogger in Indigo Gap, North Carolina. Cora and Jane Starr, her best friend and business partner, are preparing for their second crafters’ retreat in Cora’s old Victorian home. Jane, a talented potter, who lives in the carriage house with her young daughter, London, encounters a scheduling problem when her daughter’s babysitter, Gracie Wyke, disappears. Paul, Gracie’s boyfriend, and Henry, his roommate, show up at Jane’s door trying to figure out what happened to her and wondering if her disappearance could be related to online gaming because when she reached a high level on a ‘Darknet’ Wizard of Oz game, she started receiving threatening messages. When Henry disappears, Cora is worried about his mental state and safety, so she takes him into her home even though Jane doesn’t think it’s a good idea. The police consider Paul a suspect but Cora doesn’t agree and doesn’t think they are being diligent in their investigation and starts asking questions and snooping around looking for answers.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
Cora Chevalier is a former counselor in a woman’s shelter who loves crafts and is a successful crafting blogger in Indigo Gap, North Carolina. Cora and Jane Starr, her best friend and business partner, are preparing for their second crafters’ retreat in Cora’s old Victorian home. Jane, a talented potter, who lives in the carriage house with her young daughter, London, encounters a scheduling problem when her daughter’s babysitter, Gracie Wyke, disappears. Paul, Gracie’s boyfriend, and Henry, his roommate, show up at Jane’s door trying to figure out what happened to her and wondering if her disappearance could be related to online gaming because when she reached a high level on a ‘Darknet’ Wizard of Oz game, she started receiving threatening messages. When Henry disappears, Cora is worried about his mental state and safety, so she takes him into her home even though Jane doesn’t think it’s a good idea. The police consider Paul a suspect but Cora doesn’t agree and doesn’t think they are being diligent in their investigation and starts asking questions and snooping around looking for answers.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
April 4, 2017
REVIEW:
Just as Cora Chevalier and her friend Jane start hoping that their latest crafting retreat will go off without a hitch, an ominous text message, a missing nanny and a murder get in the way. Can the pair run the retreat and work to ferret out a killer? If anyone can, it's Cora and Jane!
No Charm Intended is the second book in the Cora Crafts Mystery series. I like the two main characters. Cora is enjoying her new life in Indigo Falls, NC, while still trying to work through anxiety caused by her former job at a women's shelter. Jane is raising her daughter London after leaving an abusive marriage. Both are strong, independent, intelligent women who can run a business and teach others how to make beautiful handcrafts. The idea of craft retreats in a huge, victorian house sounds awesome! I live in western NC and wish Kildare House were real! I would book a retreat weekend in a heartbeat!
The mystery portion of the plot is interesting and engaging. I enjoyed the fact that even the retreat guests got involved in sleuthing. The subplots of crafting and the video game industry didn't overpower the mystery but added depth to it. I enjoyed the fact that a portion of the action was at the abandoned Wizard of Oz theme park in NC.The park actually exists. It closed in 1980 but opens for special occasions and a once a year fall tour, "Autumn in Oz.'' It was nice to have it featured in a cozy mystery!
The book also includes some craft instructions and tips related to projects the retreat guests made at Kildare House during the story.
I enjoyed this second installment in the Cora Crafts Mystery series even more than the first and I am definitely looking forward to the next!
Mollie Cox Bryan is also the author of the Cumberland Creek Mystery series. To find out more about the author and her books, check out her website: http://molliecoxbryan.com/
Just as Cora Chevalier and her friend Jane start hoping that their latest crafting retreat will go off without a hitch, an ominous text message, a missing nanny and a murder get in the way. Can the pair run the retreat and work to ferret out a killer? If anyone can, it's Cora and Jane!
No Charm Intended is the second book in the Cora Crafts Mystery series. I like the two main characters. Cora is enjoying her new life in Indigo Falls, NC, while still trying to work through anxiety caused by her former job at a women's shelter. Jane is raising her daughter London after leaving an abusive marriage. Both are strong, independent, intelligent women who can run a business and teach others how to make beautiful handcrafts. The idea of craft retreats in a huge, victorian house sounds awesome! I live in western NC and wish Kildare House were real! I would book a retreat weekend in a heartbeat!
The mystery portion of the plot is interesting and engaging. I enjoyed the fact that even the retreat guests got involved in sleuthing. The subplots of crafting and the video game industry didn't overpower the mystery but added depth to it. I enjoyed the fact that a portion of the action was at the abandoned Wizard of Oz theme park in NC.The park actually exists. It closed in 1980 but opens for special occasions and a once a year fall tour, "Autumn in Oz.'' It was nice to have it featured in a cozy mystery!
The book also includes some craft instructions and tips related to projects the retreat guests made at Kildare House during the story.
I enjoyed this second installment in the Cora Crafts Mystery series even more than the first and I am definitely looking forward to the next!
Mollie Cox Bryan is also the author of the Cumberland Creek Mystery series. To find out more about the author and her books, check out her website: http://molliecoxbryan.com/
April 21, 2017
No Charm Intended is the second in the Cora Crafts Mystery series featuring Coralie "Cora" Chevalier set in Indigo Gap, North Carolina. Cora and her best friend Jane Starr, along with Ruby O'Malley are preparing for the second crafter's retreat to be held in their newly renovated Victorian.
Jane's daughter London's babysitter Gracie Wyke goes missing at the start of the retreat causing scheduling problems and emotional distress for London. When Gracie's boyfriend Paul and his best friend Henry arrive on Jane's doorstep looking for help in locating the girl, Cora soon finds herself drawn into an investigation involving an online computer game "The Wizard of Oz".
Like the first in the series this edition is chock full of crafting projects and tips, with the components for these being things found in the wild. Detective Brodsky is back leading the investigation and while Cora seems to have found happiness with Adrian, there is still a hint of attraction to the hunky lawyer Cashel.
I received an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley via Kensington Publishing. While not required to write a review I am more than happy to share my honest opinion.
Jane's daughter London's babysitter Gracie Wyke goes missing at the start of the retreat causing scheduling problems and emotional distress for London. When Gracie's boyfriend Paul and his best friend Henry arrive on Jane's doorstep looking for help in locating the girl, Cora soon finds herself drawn into an investigation involving an online computer game "The Wizard of Oz".
Like the first in the series this edition is chock full of crafting projects and tips, with the components for these being things found in the wild. Detective Brodsky is back leading the investigation and while Cora seems to have found happiness with Adrian, there is still a hint of attraction to the hunky lawyer Cashel.
I received an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley via Kensington Publishing. While not required to write a review I am more than happy to share my honest opinion.
April 3, 2017
This is book two in the Cora Crafts Mystery series and the first I have read in it. I liked this book. I loved the idea of a craft get away and thought that the relationship between Cora and Jane was wonderful. Their supporting characters also were interesting and realistic. I was impressed by the complexity of this mystery and the subject. An on line game based murder mystery that is quite intricate. I liked that it was not your average murder mystery and even though it was more of a thriller mystery it does have lots of cozy tendencies.
April 6, 2017
Cora is hoping that this year's wildcrafting retreat will go better than last year...a hope that is soon shattered when first her friend's babysitter, Gracie, goes missing, and then the body of one of Gracie's friends is found murdered. Can Cora stay out of this investigation and concentrate on her retreat customers, or will she be pulled into danger herself. This is the second book in the Cora Crafts Mystery series, but even without reading the first book, it was easy to slip into Cora and Jane's world, and their various craft loves. I enjoyed reading about the different classes taught in the retreat, and appreciated seeing several craft suggestions in the end of the book. The mystery itself soon involved all of the clients at the retreat as one way or another, they became involved in finding out what happened to Gracie, an answer that kept the reader guessing to the end. I look forward to reading more books from this author and continuing with this series. Disclosure: I am voluntarily reviewing an Advance Reading Copy of this book.
April 27, 2017
No Charm Intended by Mollie Cox Bryan is the second book in the Cora Crafts Mystery series. I love crafting and I love cozy mysteries, so this book is perfect for me. Cora has relocated to Indigo Gap, North Carolina, to start a crafting retreat business. She lives in the large Victorian property where she holds her retreats. Her friends Jane and Ruby also live on the property, and teach classes for the retreats.
Cora is holding a four day retreat, the second one she has hosted in her new business. The day before the start of the retreat, Jane's babysitter Gracie, goes missing. Despite wanting to attend to her guests, Cora finds her self more and more involved in the hunt for Gracie, especially after a second person is reported missing.
This book is really like two intertwined stories. There is the story about the craft retreat, and there is the story about Gracie. Gracie's disappearance appears to be connected to an online Wizard of Oz game found only of the Dark Web. I find this stuff very intriguing. The thought of a corner of the internet where all sorts of shady things go down is fascinating to me. I would have liked to learn more about this.
I was also very pleased that the craft retreat was given such attention in the book. There were descriptions of the activities that made me feel like I was there with them. It definitely made me want to attend a retreat of my own, if I could just find one. I love crafting cozies where I feel like I am learning something new about the featured craft.
This book was a pleasure to read. The story flowed along at a steady pace and was very interesting. I can definitely see myself reading more from this author in the future.
I received a free ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Cora is holding a four day retreat, the second one she has hosted in her new business. The day before the start of the retreat, Jane's babysitter Gracie, goes missing. Despite wanting to attend to her guests, Cora finds her self more and more involved in the hunt for Gracie, especially after a second person is reported missing.
This book is really like two intertwined stories. There is the story about the craft retreat, and there is the story about Gracie. Gracie's disappearance appears to be connected to an online Wizard of Oz game found only of the Dark Web. I find this stuff very intriguing. The thought of a corner of the internet where all sorts of shady things go down is fascinating to me. I would have liked to learn more about this.
I was also very pleased that the craft retreat was given such attention in the book. There were descriptions of the activities that made me feel like I was there with them. It definitely made me want to attend a retreat of my own, if I could just find one. I love crafting cozies where I feel like I am learning something new about the featured craft.
This book was a pleasure to read. The story flowed along at a steady pace and was very interesting. I can definitely see myself reading more from this author in the future.
I received a free ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
April 26, 2017
4 out of 5 stars.
No Charm Intended is the second book in the Cora Crafts Mystery series by Mollie Cox Bryan, and it was a delightful read. I was a little bit leery when I picked it up because I hadn't really enjoyed the first book of the series, but this one was definitely better and I enjoyed reading it. There were three reasons this book did not get a 4.5 or 5 star rating. 1) It lagged a bit in the middle section, though it does pick up speed again. 2) There just isn't that extra "pizzazz" that I need for 5 stars. 3) The way mental illness was dealt with in this book, which I explain below.
While we do end up with a murder in this one, the main story line is that of an abduction. I was thrilled with that. Sure, murder makes one of the more "tantalizing" mysteries, but I'm always thrilled when an author decides to go with an abduction or a robbery so something besides just murder as it's a nice change of pace.
I enjoy our main characters for the most part. They're well-developed and complex characters. I enjoyed some of the side characters in this book as well.
The setting descriptions are adequate. I wouldn't have minded a few more details, but it wasn't too sparse. I was able to imagine most of the places described in the book.
The plot line moved along mostly at a steady pace. There was a small section in the middle where it seemed to lag, but then it picked up again.
The biggest issue I had is with Jane's reaction to the news of the abducted young woman having a mental illness. We're made to understood that if Jane had known, she wouldn't have hired the young lady. Now, I understand that she's worried about the safety of her daughter, but having a mental illness should NOT be the sole reason you don't hire someone. I have five mental illnesses. Yes, five. Yet, I spent many years babysitting children and still babysit from time to time with no issues. I understand wanting assurance that the person watching your child isn't going to have a meltdown. However, instead of just dismissing them out of hand, talk to the person. Is the person taking their meds as prescribed? Are they seeking help for their condition? If they are, there's very little to worry about. Would you dismiss someone just because they're diagnosed with cancer or diabetes? Probably not. Those with mental illnesses deserve the same respect.
Other than that, this was a fun book to read and I'm now looking forward to more in the series. :)
*** I received an ARC of this book from the author. I was not compensated for my review. All opinions and conclusions expressed are my own. ***
No Charm Intended is the second book in the Cora Crafts Mystery series by Mollie Cox Bryan, and it was a delightful read. I was a little bit leery when I picked it up because I hadn't really enjoyed the first book of the series, but this one was definitely better and I enjoyed reading it. There were three reasons this book did not get a 4.5 or 5 star rating. 1) It lagged a bit in the middle section, though it does pick up speed again. 2) There just isn't that extra "pizzazz" that I need for 5 stars. 3) The way mental illness was dealt with in this book, which I explain below.
While we do end up with a murder in this one, the main story line is that of an abduction. I was thrilled with that. Sure, murder makes one of the more "tantalizing" mysteries, but I'm always thrilled when an author decides to go with an abduction or a robbery so something besides just murder as it's a nice change of pace.
I enjoy our main characters for the most part. They're well-developed and complex characters. I enjoyed some of the side characters in this book as well.
The setting descriptions are adequate. I wouldn't have minded a few more details, but it wasn't too sparse. I was able to imagine most of the places described in the book.
The plot line moved along mostly at a steady pace. There was a small section in the middle where it seemed to lag, but then it picked up again.
The biggest issue I had is with Jane's reaction to the news of the abducted young woman having a mental illness. We're made to understood that if Jane had known, she wouldn't have hired the young lady. Now, I understand that she's worried about the safety of her daughter, but having a mental illness should NOT be the sole reason you don't hire someone. I have five mental illnesses. Yes, five. Yet, I spent many years babysitting children and still babysit from time to time with no issues. I understand wanting assurance that the person watching your child isn't going to have a meltdown. However, instead of just dismissing them out of hand, talk to the person. Is the person taking their meds as prescribed? Are they seeking help for their condition? If they are, there's very little to worry about. Would you dismiss someone just because they're diagnosed with cancer or diabetes? Probably not. Those with mental illnesses deserve the same respect.
Other than that, this was a fun book to read and I'm now looking forward to more in the series. :)
*** I received an ARC of this book from the author. I was not compensated for my review. All opinions and conclusions expressed are my own. ***
April 2, 2017
No Charm Intended: A Cora Crafts Mystery
Cozy
Mollie Cox Bryan
Cora has a new life in a new home with new friends, in Indigo Gap, North Carolina. She and her business partner and friend, Jane are preparing to host their second “wildcrafting” retreat at her Victorian home. But a when local nanny Gracie Wyke goes missing everything gets turned upside down. While trying to lead their guests on nature hikes, rock painting and making clay charms, Cora and Jane, team up to do their own investigation into her disappearance.
Cora takes Paul, Gracie's lovestruck boyfriend in, believing he is in danger from whoever took Gracie. But as new clues are uncovered, and the body of Paul’s best friend, Henry turns up at a local abandoned Wizard of Oz amusement park, Cora and Jane worry that they may be harboring a dangerous criminal.
__
There is no doubt that Mollie Cox Bryan is a talented and creative writer. The crafting basis of her story is interesting and contains a bit of magic. However, picking a particular character that stands out from all the others is almost impossible, and at times can be confusing as to who the main character even is. The main characters have distinct personalities that for the most part are likable. Yet Cora seems to panic over the past and men, whereas Jane is frightened by even a hint of trusting anyone, including Cora.
The writing flows but is a bit too slow paced. The mystery gets lost in the crafting, and the clues to the identity of the killer are too subtle. When it becomes apparent who the killer is there is no logical reason to suspect the character or to give the killer any credence. A better explanation needs to be given to accept who the killer is and the motive for the brutal murder of a young man and the abduction of a quiet, beautiful young woman.
All books, including those in a series, must stand alone. If not they fail to capture the audience's attention and hold it over the course of several books. This book would benefit from giving a quick background on the main characters at the beginning of the story so that the reader doesn’t sit and scratch their head in confusion. The ending is satisfying but brief. The story has appeal, the primary setting has promise, and the crafting angle is well thought out and entertaining. Readers who enjoy craft related stories will enjoy this book and the crafting projects that are included.
In conclusion, I like the writing of the author, and although the story is long and a bit too complicated for a quick read, the series has great potential for future books.
The publisher provided an ARC in return for an honest review.
Cozy
Mollie Cox Bryan
Cora has a new life in a new home with new friends, in Indigo Gap, North Carolina. She and her business partner and friend, Jane are preparing to host their second “wildcrafting” retreat at her Victorian home. But a when local nanny Gracie Wyke goes missing everything gets turned upside down. While trying to lead their guests on nature hikes, rock painting and making clay charms, Cora and Jane, team up to do their own investigation into her disappearance.
Cora takes Paul, Gracie's lovestruck boyfriend in, believing he is in danger from whoever took Gracie. But as new clues are uncovered, and the body of Paul’s best friend, Henry turns up at a local abandoned Wizard of Oz amusement park, Cora and Jane worry that they may be harboring a dangerous criminal.
__
There is no doubt that Mollie Cox Bryan is a talented and creative writer. The crafting basis of her story is interesting and contains a bit of magic. However, picking a particular character that stands out from all the others is almost impossible, and at times can be confusing as to who the main character even is. The main characters have distinct personalities that for the most part are likable. Yet Cora seems to panic over the past and men, whereas Jane is frightened by even a hint of trusting anyone, including Cora.
The writing flows but is a bit too slow paced. The mystery gets lost in the crafting, and the clues to the identity of the killer are too subtle. When it becomes apparent who the killer is there is no logical reason to suspect the character or to give the killer any credence. A better explanation needs to be given to accept who the killer is and the motive for the brutal murder of a young man and the abduction of a quiet, beautiful young woman.
All books, including those in a series, must stand alone. If not they fail to capture the audience's attention and hold it over the course of several books. This book would benefit from giving a quick background on the main characters at the beginning of the story so that the reader doesn’t sit and scratch their head in confusion. The ending is satisfying but brief. The story has appeal, the primary setting has promise, and the crafting angle is well thought out and entertaining. Readers who enjoy craft related stories will enjoy this book and the crafting projects that are included.
In conclusion, I like the writing of the author, and although the story is long and a bit too complicated for a quick read, the series has great potential for future books.
The publisher provided an ARC in return for an honest review.
April 25, 2017
This was the second in the series featuring Cora and Jane and their small town craft retreat. I really enjoyed this book. I have read the first, which was helpful in reading this book, but not necessary. It is a little more different than the regular cozy formula but I enjoyed that. Just reading about Cora, Jane, Ruby and the classes they teach makes me want to craft more. I would sign up for this retreat in a heartbeat.
This time around Cora gets wrapped up in the disappearance of Jane's babysitter Grace and ends up taking in Paul, her boyfriend during the craft retreat while she tries to help solve the disappearance of Grace and murder of another student. There are many crafting details, which I liked, mixed in with the story. I got a few new ideas for my house while reading, a delightful bonus.
The author does a great job with her characters. All are very believable and in depth. I especially liked the addition of a few of her Cumberland Creek characters from the other series she writes. Although, if you have never read the other series you would not notice or the story be diminished. Overall, a great story and I am looking forward to book 3. I did receive this book in exchange for an honest review, but the opinions are entirely my own.
This time around Cora gets wrapped up in the disappearance of Jane's babysitter Grace and ends up taking in Paul, her boyfriend during the craft retreat while she tries to help solve the disappearance of Grace and murder of another student. There are many crafting details, which I liked, mixed in with the story. I got a few new ideas for my house while reading, a delightful bonus.
The author does a great job with her characters. All are very believable and in depth. I especially liked the addition of a few of her Cumberland Creek characters from the other series she writes. Although, if you have never read the other series you would not notice or the story be diminished. Overall, a great story and I am looking forward to book 3. I did receive this book in exchange for an honest review, but the opinions are entirely my own.
March 28, 2017
I felt this book pulled in too many directions. Cozy crafting, personal growth for Cora & Jane, Darknet gaming did not blend well. I did enjoy the crafting retreat storyline and learning more about Cora and Jane.
Cora's left the social work career back in Pittsburg to open a crafting retreat center in Indigo Gap North Carolina with her friend Jane Starr. As their second retreat starts, Cora is drawn into a police investigation of a missing college student who happens to be Jane's babysitter.
Wildcrafting session include pressing flowers, making pom-poms and clay charms. Instructions for these and three other crafts are included at the back of this book.
I received a copy of this book through Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
Cora's left the social work career back in Pittsburg to open a crafting retreat center in Indigo Gap North Carolina with her friend Jane Starr. As their second retreat starts, Cora is drawn into a police investigation of a missing college student who happens to be Jane's babysitter.
Wildcrafting session include pressing flowers, making pom-poms and clay charms. Instructions for these and three other crafts are included at the back of this book.
I received a copy of this book through Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
April 25, 2017
No Charm Intended by Mollie Cox Bryan is the second book in the Cora Cafts series. I enjoy the setting of Indigo Gap for this series. It sounds like a a great place to not only visit but to live as well.
This time the retreat at Kildare House is called "wildcrafting" which introduced me to many new ideas for use in traditional crafts. Jane and Cora seem to be strong and remarkably resilient young women. The retreats are providing both of them with a new lease on life. However, I confess that I am having trouble connecting with either one of them in this series.
The mystery contains a theme that is darker than usually found in most cozy mysteries but the steady pace and the clues kept me turning the pages. I was proud of myself at the reveal when I realized that I had figured out who was behind all of the mystery and mayhem before Cora.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book from Kensington Press via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own. My rating is 3 1/2 stars.
This time the retreat at Kildare House is called "wildcrafting" which introduced me to many new ideas for use in traditional crafts. Jane and Cora seem to be strong and remarkably resilient young women. The retreats are providing both of them with a new lease on life. However, I confess that I am having trouble connecting with either one of them in this series.
The mystery contains a theme that is darker than usually found in most cozy mysteries but the steady pace and the clues kept me turning the pages. I was proud of myself at the reveal when I realized that I had figured out who was behind all of the mystery and mayhem before Cora.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book from Kensington Press via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own. My rating is 3 1/2 stars.
April 18, 2017
Synopsis:
-The perfect weekend getaway: crafting, food, and a murder or two!- --New York Times bestselling author Lynn Cahoon
Settling into her new life and career in small-town Indigo Gap, North Carolina, Cora Chevalier is preparing to host a -wildcrafting- retreat at her Victorian home. But a specter hangs over the venture when beloved local nanny Gracie Wyke goes missing. Amidst leading their guests in nature hikes, rock painting and making clay charms, Cora and her business partner, Jane, team up with Gracie's boyfriend, Paul, to launch their own investigation into her disappearance when the local police prove unhelpful.
Cora and her crafters take Paul in, believing he is in danger and not the suspect police have made him out to be. However as they uncover new clues and a body turns up at a local abandoned amusement park, Cora and Jane begin to question their decision. With more questions than answers arising, is Cora crafty enough to untangle a knot that could put an innocent in jail--and permanently destroy her reputation?
Praise for Mollie Cox Bryan's Mysteries
-Scrapbookers and hobby cozy fans will enjoy this delightful holiday escape.- --Library Journal on A Crafty Christmas
-Light and full of positive solutions... A great entry in a fun series.- --RT Book Reviews on Death of an Irish Diva
-A font of ingenuity...superb entertainment.- --Mystery Scene Magazine on Scrapbook of Secrets
Includes crafting tips! (Goodreads)
Review:
The characters are well developed and well rounded. I thought that the two main characters, Cora and Jane, were smart caring women but at times, I thought they were both a little wishy-washy. That is only my opinion and other readers may not feel the same way. At time I got confused keeping all of the characters straight in my mind. With all of the teachers and crafters I felt like there were maybe too many characters. While having crafters come to the retreats allows the author to introduce more characters, it can also be a bit overwhelming. Again, that is only my opinion and others may not agree.
What I did really like about this book was the mystery of what happened to Gracie? This book had a little edgier feeling than most cozy mysteries that I read. I found the idea of an online game murder mystery quite clever and it really held my interest. I could not help but turn the pages faster as I got more into the mystery. The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and through much of the book, I felt like I was right there, watching all the action taking place around me. That to me is a real plus.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery with a little bit of an edge to it.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for a honest review. I would like to thank Netgalley and Kensington Books for the opportunity to read and review this book.
-The perfect weekend getaway: crafting, food, and a murder or two!- --New York Times bestselling author Lynn Cahoon
Settling into her new life and career in small-town Indigo Gap, North Carolina, Cora Chevalier is preparing to host a -wildcrafting- retreat at her Victorian home. But a specter hangs over the venture when beloved local nanny Gracie Wyke goes missing. Amidst leading their guests in nature hikes, rock painting and making clay charms, Cora and her business partner, Jane, team up with Gracie's boyfriend, Paul, to launch their own investigation into her disappearance when the local police prove unhelpful.
Cora and her crafters take Paul in, believing he is in danger and not the suspect police have made him out to be. However as they uncover new clues and a body turns up at a local abandoned amusement park, Cora and Jane begin to question their decision. With more questions than answers arising, is Cora crafty enough to untangle a knot that could put an innocent in jail--and permanently destroy her reputation?
Praise for Mollie Cox Bryan's Mysteries
-Scrapbookers and hobby cozy fans will enjoy this delightful holiday escape.- --Library Journal on A Crafty Christmas
-Light and full of positive solutions... A great entry in a fun series.- --RT Book Reviews on Death of an Irish Diva
-A font of ingenuity...superb entertainment.- --Mystery Scene Magazine on Scrapbook of Secrets
Includes crafting tips! (Goodreads)
Review:
The characters are well developed and well rounded. I thought that the two main characters, Cora and Jane, were smart caring women but at times, I thought they were both a little wishy-washy. That is only my opinion and other readers may not feel the same way. At time I got confused keeping all of the characters straight in my mind. With all of the teachers and crafters I felt like there were maybe too many characters. While having crafters come to the retreats allows the author to introduce more characters, it can also be a bit overwhelming. Again, that is only my opinion and others may not agree.
What I did really like about this book was the mystery of what happened to Gracie? This book had a little edgier feeling than most cozy mysteries that I read. I found the idea of an online game murder mystery quite clever and it really held my interest. I could not help but turn the pages faster as I got more into the mystery. The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and through much of the book, I felt like I was right there, watching all the action taking place around me. That to me is a real plus.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery with a little bit of an edge to it.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for a honest review. I would like to thank Netgalley and Kensington Books for the opportunity to read and review this book.
April 17, 2017
I loved the setting of Indigo Gap, North Carolina. It is a small little town where the people seem nice and the atmosphere is cheery. I thought the author did an amazing job of describing the different crafts in the book. I'm not very crafty at all but I so admire the wonderful craftwork of others.
Cora is a very likable and talented woman. I would love to be a guest at her "wildcrafting" retreat. Just think of all the talented people you would be surrounded by. Cora is excited to spend time hosting the retreat along with her business partner , Jane and share her crafting abilities until someone turns up missing. It sure does put a damper on the retreat. How do you make sure your guests are having a great time when police officers stop by with questions? I thought Cora handled their appearance with grace .
I found it very interesting that a computer game called The Wizard of Oz could be behind the disappearance of the young woman who is missing. There are so many people playing online games these days that you don't really know who you are playing with. Did someone lure the unsuspecting woman into danger? I was not surprised that the first suspect was the boyfriend. Paul is a likable guy but at times I wasn't sure if he was guilty or not. He seems to have such bad luck that it's no wonder he is a suspect. Would you invite a suspect to stay at your house? I wonder what was going through Cora's mind when she said Paul could stay with her?
Cora, her friend Jane and Paul decide they can find the missing woman faster than the police and off they go on a journey that keeps readers guessing at every turn. This is not a typical funny cozy but one that challenges readers to look at topics that aren't easy to read or talk about. I appreciate the authors candor on the topics and the realism written about them. I have come to really like this book and enjoyed the writing style of an author that gives subtle hints of the mystery . What happens when a body turns up? That is when things start really heating up. I loved how the characters seemed to mesh so well together. This is one book you won't want to miss. It has intrigue, surprises and characters that are fascinating . Thanks for a great book that kept me entertained and moved at a good pace.
I received a copy of this book from the Cozy Mystery Book Review Crew and the author. The review is my own. opinion.
Cora is a very likable and talented woman. I would love to be a guest at her "wildcrafting" retreat. Just think of all the talented people you would be surrounded by. Cora is excited to spend time hosting the retreat along with her business partner , Jane and share her crafting abilities until someone turns up missing. It sure does put a damper on the retreat. How do you make sure your guests are having a great time when police officers stop by with questions? I thought Cora handled their appearance with grace .
I found it very interesting that a computer game called The Wizard of Oz could be behind the disappearance of the young woman who is missing. There are so many people playing online games these days that you don't really know who you are playing with. Did someone lure the unsuspecting woman into danger? I was not surprised that the first suspect was the boyfriend. Paul is a likable guy but at times I wasn't sure if he was guilty or not. He seems to have such bad luck that it's no wonder he is a suspect. Would you invite a suspect to stay at your house? I wonder what was going through Cora's mind when she said Paul could stay with her?
Cora, her friend Jane and Paul decide they can find the missing woman faster than the police and off they go on a journey that keeps readers guessing at every turn. This is not a typical funny cozy but one that challenges readers to look at topics that aren't easy to read or talk about. I appreciate the authors candor on the topics and the realism written about them. I have come to really like this book and enjoyed the writing style of an author that gives subtle hints of the mystery . What happens when a body turns up? That is when things start really heating up. I loved how the characters seemed to mesh so well together. This is one book you won't want to miss. It has intrigue, surprises and characters that are fascinating . Thanks for a great book that kept me entertained and moved at a good pace.
I received a copy of this book from the Cozy Mystery Book Review Crew and the author. The review is my own. opinion.
April 24, 2017
**I voluntarily reviewed this ARC**
This definitely isn't your typical cozy series. At times the mystery almost seems like a secondary plot, but with Cora being a former social worker is makes sense that the focus would be on the characters. The alternating viewpoints with Cora and Jane help to make the characters feel more real. At times I even felt as if I was right there with the characters. The mystery was also very well written.
This definitely isn't your typical cozy series. At times the mystery almost seems like a secondary plot, but with Cora being a former social worker is makes sense that the focus would be on the characters. The alternating viewpoints with Cora and Jane help to make the characters feel more real. At times I even felt as if I was right there with the characters. The mystery was also very well written.
April 5, 2017
No Charm Intended Intended is the second book in the Cora Crafts Mystery series by Millie Cox Bryan. While I have not read the first book in the series in in no way hindered my enjoyment of this book.
What a delightful cozy! I thoroughly enjoyed the crafting elements. And I loved the paper dolls, and all their history. The addition of the crafting instructions at the end of the book are wonderful.
The characters are well developed and interesting, they pulled me into the story, I actually felt as if I were there on the retreat with them. These are characters, that I want to visit with again.
I will definitely be going back and picking up the first book in the series, as well as any future books that are released in this series.
I received an ARC of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.
What a delightful cozy! I thoroughly enjoyed the crafting elements. And I loved the paper dolls, and all their history. The addition of the crafting instructions at the end of the book are wonderful.
The characters are well developed and interesting, they pulled me into the story, I actually felt as if I were there on the retreat with them. These are characters, that I want to visit with again.
I will definitely be going back and picking up the first book in the series, as well as any future books that are released in this series.
I received an ARC of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.
March 24, 2017
Book 2 in the series.
I liked No Charm Intended better than book 1. I love the premise and the changing "cast" of characters each retreat is fun. The mystery was unusual and interesting, the activities fun and engaging.
But I found myself pulled out of the story by a few things:
I found the two main characters, Cora and Jane, at times totally interchangeable and got them confused, because sometimes one spoke so out of character that I'd have go back and re-read the passage to make sure I had the right person. Jane seemed to be more cynical and less trusting, and openly distrusted Paul, then suddenly she was crying because she was worried about him. Wait, what? Things like that happened several times through out the book, leaving me a little confused each time.
Jane and Cora have just started a business, money is obviously a concern, and yet they have meals catered? That doesn't seem practical. And what exactly does Cora bring to the retreats? She doesn't seem to teach anything, just spends her time blogging...
I'm also having a problem with the fact that Cora seems to have so many of the men in town attracted to her, including a married police officer. Because the love triangle isn't bad enough, Cora gets to be in a love square!
It was an enjoyable enough read that I will read book three, but I'd really like to see the main characters a bit more fleshed out and individualized in the next one.
*I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the author*
I liked No Charm Intended better than book 1. I love the premise and the changing "cast" of characters each retreat is fun. The mystery was unusual and interesting, the activities fun and engaging.
But I found myself pulled out of the story by a few things:
I found the two main characters, Cora and Jane, at times totally interchangeable and got them confused, because sometimes one spoke so out of character that I'd have go back and re-read the passage to make sure I had the right person. Jane seemed to be more cynical and less trusting, and openly distrusted Paul, then suddenly she was crying because she was worried about him. Wait, what? Things like that happened several times through out the book, leaving me a little confused each time.
Jane and Cora have just started a business, money is obviously a concern, and yet they have meals catered? That doesn't seem practical. And what exactly does Cora bring to the retreats? She doesn't seem to teach anything, just spends her time blogging...
I'm also having a problem with the fact that Cora seems to have so many of the men in town attracted to her, including a married police officer. Because the love triangle isn't bad enough, Cora gets to be in a love square!
It was an enjoyable enough read that I will read book three, but I'd really like to see the main characters a bit more fleshed out and individualized in the next one.
*I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the author*
April 25, 2017
‘No Charm Intended’ is one of the most intriguing cozy mysteries I will read this year. Mollie Cox Bryan’s first novel in the Cora Crafts Mystery series is so good that I had to read this one, which is incredibly fabulous! The layers of mystery lead to an explosive ending as we see how online computer gamers may unwittingly get too involved off screen. ‘No Charm Intended’ elevates the series to a new level.
Savor the moments in historic, gorgeous North Carolina, where Cora’s craft blog bloomed into a gorgeous Victorian home where she and best friend Jane lead craft retreats. The first one was successful, and Spring Fling is set to begin. I envy the talent and imagination they have, to do so many crafts and repurpose items! Jane and her daughter London live in the carriage house, remodeled with a pottery studio on the first floor and living quarters upstairs.
Gracie, the nanny of London’s close friend Jillie, sometimes sits with London, who adores her. Gracie was to spend time with London during the retreat. At least, until Grace disappeared and several people received anonymous texts saying ‘I Kidnapped Her’. Gracie’s boyfriend Paul and his friend/roommate Henry tried to find her. As the retreat begins, Henry disappears. Paul, Gracie, and Henry were very close friends, and play a Darknet online game, The Wizard of Oz. Whether Gracie was kidnapped and by whom had frightening possibilities when Henry is found dead at the closed-down theme park, Oz.
Cora tries to keep a handle on the investigation, help Paul, and lead the retreat. Jane leads her part of the retreat and tries to keep Cora from getting too involved in the mystery. As the plot twists and turns, some of the women at the retreat try their hand as sounding boards and share suggestions. Sheila, scrapbook maven of the author’s Cumberland Creek Mystery series, is a guest instructor; it may take their combined talents to solve these mysteries. Included are directions for each of the crafts taught during the retreat.
Jane is the more practical partner when it comes to protecting their home and her daughter. Cora had left her position as counselor at a women’s shelter due to overwhelming panic attacks; her caring heart often overrules her head. That is a wonderful trait if it is tempered by self-care. Her caring heart leads the way in this mystery. I like Jane and Cora best, then Ruby, who leads craft and herbal classes. Ruby is still an enigma although is slowly opening up; Cora and Jane are three-dimensional. I also like Sheila and her daughter Donna, and hope we see more of them in future novels. There is an eclectic mixture of talented artisans and crafters.
When it comes to facing the bad guy/ gal, Cora and Sheila rock! The plot is fresh yet scary, ripping open what most of us are unaware of that could become a real, threatening event. The mystery is very volatile, with plot twists that often change the direction. There are a few possible suspects, each adding to the intrigue and tension. There is no way to figure out who the bad guy/ gal is or what the cops are or aren’t doing, which is how I like it. The end is stunning, intense, and altogether surprising. I am hooked on this series! For the readers who enjoy well-written, intriguing cozy mysteries with heightened suspense and crafts, I highly recommend ‘No Charm Intended’! Excellent read!!
From a grateful heart: I received this eBook from NetGalley and this is my honest review.
Savor the moments in historic, gorgeous North Carolina, where Cora’s craft blog bloomed into a gorgeous Victorian home where she and best friend Jane lead craft retreats. The first one was successful, and Spring Fling is set to begin. I envy the talent and imagination they have, to do so many crafts and repurpose items! Jane and her daughter London live in the carriage house, remodeled with a pottery studio on the first floor and living quarters upstairs.
Gracie, the nanny of London’s close friend Jillie, sometimes sits with London, who adores her. Gracie was to spend time with London during the retreat. At least, until Grace disappeared and several people received anonymous texts saying ‘I Kidnapped Her’. Gracie’s boyfriend Paul and his friend/roommate Henry tried to find her. As the retreat begins, Henry disappears. Paul, Gracie, and Henry were very close friends, and play a Darknet online game, The Wizard of Oz. Whether Gracie was kidnapped and by whom had frightening possibilities when Henry is found dead at the closed-down theme park, Oz.
Cora tries to keep a handle on the investigation, help Paul, and lead the retreat. Jane leads her part of the retreat and tries to keep Cora from getting too involved in the mystery. As the plot twists and turns, some of the women at the retreat try their hand as sounding boards and share suggestions. Sheila, scrapbook maven of the author’s Cumberland Creek Mystery series, is a guest instructor; it may take their combined talents to solve these mysteries. Included are directions for each of the crafts taught during the retreat.
Jane is the more practical partner when it comes to protecting their home and her daughter. Cora had left her position as counselor at a women’s shelter due to overwhelming panic attacks; her caring heart often overrules her head. That is a wonderful trait if it is tempered by self-care. Her caring heart leads the way in this mystery. I like Jane and Cora best, then Ruby, who leads craft and herbal classes. Ruby is still an enigma although is slowly opening up; Cora and Jane are three-dimensional. I also like Sheila and her daughter Donna, and hope we see more of them in future novels. There is an eclectic mixture of talented artisans and crafters.
When it comes to facing the bad guy/ gal, Cora and Sheila rock! The plot is fresh yet scary, ripping open what most of us are unaware of that could become a real, threatening event. The mystery is very volatile, with plot twists that often change the direction. There are a few possible suspects, each adding to the intrigue and tension. There is no way to figure out who the bad guy/ gal is or what the cops are or aren’t doing, which is how I like it. The end is stunning, intense, and altogether surprising. I am hooked on this series! For the readers who enjoy well-written, intriguing cozy mysteries with heightened suspense and crafts, I highly recommend ‘No Charm Intended’! Excellent read!!
From a grateful heart: I received this eBook from NetGalley and this is my honest review.
May 12, 2017
This is a great book; this is the second book in the Cora Crafts Mystery series written by Mollie Cox Bryan. Settling into her new life and career in small-town Indigo Gap, North Carolina, Cora Chevalier is preparing to host a -wildcrafting- retreat at her Victorian home. But a specter hangs over the venture when beloved local nanny Gracie Wyke goes missing. Amidst leading their guests in nature hikes, rock painting and making clay charms, Cora and her business partner, Jane, team up with Gracie's boyfriend, Paul, to launch their own investigation into her disappearance when the local police prove unhelpful. This is a great book with a wonderful story and well developed characters. This book will keep you reading long into the night and you will not want to put this book down until you finish. This was such a great read and full of surprises. I am looking forward to reading the next book by this great author. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader’s copy of this book. The free book held no determination on my personal review.
April 23, 2017
No Charm Intended by Mollie Cox Bryant is the second book in the Cora Crafts Mystery series. In this book Cora and Jane work more as partners in solving the mysterious disappearance of Jane's daughter's babysitter. I really liked the more equal partnership and hope it continues in future editions. We got more of an insight into Cora's romantic relationship(s) and no insight into where Jane's personal life is taking her. I admit to wanting more Jane and less Cora at this point in the series.
This is a new series and the author is introducing the new characters. Along with the returning characters, each book brings a group of students/retreat participants, who may or may not be the culprit. This is good because it makes the mystery harder to solve. So far, I like the characters and the relationships, but I can see getting bored with Cora having two men who seem to "like" her. I remember another series I read for a while and gave up on just for that reason, 30 somethings in platonic relationships with two men seemed unrealistic.
I would like to know more about Jane and have her find someone steady and continue to help with solving the mysteries.
All in all, this is a good series, with likeable characters, an interesting location, great scenery, fun crafts with instructions in the back, and not so easy to figure out crimes and criminals.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
This is a new series and the author is introducing the new characters. Along with the returning characters, each book brings a group of students/retreat participants, who may or may not be the culprit. This is good because it makes the mystery harder to solve. So far, I like the characters and the relationships, but I can see getting bored with Cora having two men who seem to "like" her. I remember another series I read for a while and gave up on just for that reason, 30 somethings in platonic relationships with two men seemed unrealistic.
I would like to know more about Jane and have her find someone steady and continue to help with solving the mysteries.
All in all, this is a good series, with likeable characters, an interesting location, great scenery, fun crafts with instructions in the back, and not so easy to figure out crimes and criminals.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
April 3, 2017
First I would like to thank Netgalley and Kensington Books for allowing me to read this advanced copy.
When I first read the premise of this book I was intrigued by the idea of a place were you could go for a craft retreat and then of course the murder. After reading the first book in this series I loved the characters and I couldn't wait to get into the second book in this series.
In this story during a crafter's retreat a baby sitter goes missing and then one of the searchers is found dead. Threads to the dark web and a video game lead to a bizarre obsession. All the while the crafter's are making crafts using nature.
I really like this story line and I can't wait for the next book in this series!
When I first read the premise of this book I was intrigued by the idea of a place were you could go for a craft retreat and then of course the murder. After reading the first book in this series I loved the characters and I couldn't wait to get into the second book in this series.
In this story during a crafter's retreat a baby sitter goes missing and then one of the searchers is found dead. Threads to the dark web and a video game lead to a bizarre obsession. All the while the crafter's are making crafts using nature.
I really like this story line and I can't wait for the next book in this series!
June 13, 2017
Set in Indigo Gap, North Carolina, a small town is where our main character, Cora Chevalier is trying to set up a new life. Cora and her business partner, Jane tackle the mystery of the missing nanny; Gracie Wyke. Gracie’s boyfriend Paul joins the rag-tag group as they stumble through the police investigation and question….who is innocent and who isn’t?
Light hearted, fast paced, fun loving book. My first read in the “Cora Craft Mystery” series. While some mental illness references are brought into the book, I feel it brings a bit of realism to the storyline.
Light hearted, fast paced, fun loving book. My first read in the “Cora Craft Mystery” series. While some mental illness references are brought into the book, I feel it brings a bit of realism to the storyline.
November 2, 2021
Basically it starts off with Cora putting together a Craft Workshop with a home retreat. Incorporates a game that is very deadly in design that kids were playing and involves one of the student's who is also a nanny to one of the main Craft group. Alot of running around but really hard to keep my interest. I read and kept putting this one down. Hope her next book in the series is more interesting.
April 26, 2017
No Charm Intended is the 2nd book in the Cora Crafts Mystery series by Mollie Cox Bryan.
This is the only book I've read by this author and I really enjoyed it.
I love crafting and would love to attend one of Cora's craft retreats. The book gives information about several of the crafts so you can try them out.
I enjoyed the friendship between Jane and Cora and the interesting people that came to the retreat. I like that there is potential to bring the characters back for future retreats. I’m from North Carolina and it is interesting to read books set in an area I am familiar with.
The crime in book was a little darker than in most cozies.
I’m looking forward to reading the first book in the series and waiting for book #3.
I received this book as a gift and I am voluntarily reviewing it.
This is the only book I've read by this author and I really enjoyed it.
I love crafting and would love to attend one of Cora's craft retreats. The book gives information about several of the crafts so you can try them out.
I enjoyed the friendship between Jane and Cora and the interesting people that came to the retreat. I like that there is potential to bring the characters back for future retreats. I’m from North Carolina and it is interesting to read books set in an area I am familiar with.
The crime in book was a little darker than in most cozies.
I’m looking forward to reading the first book in the series and waiting for book #3.
I received this book as a gift and I am voluntarily reviewing it.
March 31, 2017
No Charm Intended is the second book in Mollie Cox Bryan’s Cora Crafts Mystery series. It's a really good book , I enjoyed reading it . Cora Chevalier host a Wildcrafting retreat at her home. But a nanny goes missing and then the book takes off to Cora trying to find out what happened to her and it was a fun book to read.
May 15, 2017
For complete review check out my blog at https://booksaplentybookreviews.blogs...
June 22, 2017
I would like to thank Kensington Books for inviting me to review this book for them; I obtained it as a free electronic ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an open and honest review.
Okay, from my score you might guess I didn’t exactly enjoy this book and I really really want to apologise to Ms Cox Bryan here and now as I don’t want her to think my review is all mean and nasty. As what I’m about to say is meant as constructive criticism and not some bitchy attack or spiteful meanness. If you don’t agree with what I’m about to say, please remember the magical mantra: “Pfffft, what would SHE know!”
We good? ;-)
So… I am going to state again that the copy of the book I read was an ARC and that I was invited by Kensington to read it… I did not go out of my way to seek it down and pick on it. In fact, when I initially saw it in Netgalley I skipped past as I wasn’t too sure how I’d go as I’d read the first book, felt it had some jitters and issues I was willing to put down to first book in the series stage fright and try again. I mean, I simply love the setting, the house, the concept of craft retreats. If this was real and in my area I would be there every other day… if it wasn’t for all the murders. ;-)
And I am also going to blame the fact it was an ARC on a lot of the flaws I found… ARCs are not the finished product; they are going to contain clangers. And I will also state here and now that it is my firm belief that these clangers were all sorted out before the finished book was published… Well, it is my firm hope they were.
I am not going to painstakingly list and nit-pick each issue I found. I mean, there was the usual wrong word used (or left out completely) and, hey, I am a typo Queen so never judge people on that.
But when people’s names are spelt a few different ways depending on where in the book they are mentioned… I do get a bit huffy. Then when people change who they are (we swapped from Jane to Cora at one point then back again)… this is poor editing. But - it was an ARC!
I guess what really got me was the way people were one place then suddenly another with no explanation. Holed up way out in the boonies and then in a bed and breakfast. At school but asleep at home? The days and time of days kept swapping about too and, yeah, I got a little frowny at that level of lack of editing/proofing, even for an ARC.
Also, the black and white world the characters seemed to live in. It was either this or that. Nothing else. People were either this way or that way - no grey in between. All depressed people just can’t be trusted, especially around children as they are a risk. Quick, tell my kids! I am a risk despite my Zoloft! And the main characters also came across as quite shallow would go from totally emotionless to OTT emotions and reactions to things within a paragraph and then back again. Anxiety and abuse issues are okay and natural as they have them, but other forms of mental illness or physical issues are alien and negative?
I honestly almost put this book into my DNF (Did Not Finish) pile four or five times as it was just a big jumble of a mess. One moment it would be going well and then all the jumping about, black and white, clanger filled writing would be back. As with the first book, it was almost as if two people were writing this book and only one of them was actually a decent writer.
The story jumped about and, although I guessed the ‘bad guy’ pretty much right away, the end of the book held no true explanation or reasoning behind it. More that the whole crime side of the book sounded like a good idea at the time, but that it wasn’t executed that well and seemed to clash with the cosy craft side. It was like two ideas smooshed together and they didn’t mix as well as possible or hoped.
And this is where Ms Cox Bryan, all her friends and fans will now be hitting the dislike and cussing me. Just don’t get the effigies alight if you are in a total fire ban area okay? ;-) I am so sorry to be so critical of ‘No Charm Intended’ and I feel it got to me so much as the setting, characters, story concept, etc is perfect for the cosy crime/ mystery genre. I guess I am just grumpy as I see so much potential and talent ruined by some poor editing, quite frankly, sloppy writing. Please forgive me.
Would I recommend this book to others?
I am really torn here as I just don’t know. The first book in this series had a few issues, but rather than those issues being resolved and improved upon in the second book, they’ve gotten worse. So as much as I see a LOT of positives and potential in not just ‘No Charm Intended’ but the whole ‘A Cora Crafts Mystery’ series… I don’t think I could personally face another book in this series and so just don’t know if I could safely recommend them to others.
Would I buy this book for myself?
Pretty sure we all know the answer to that question. If it was of the same quality as the ARC I received, then no I wouldn’t. I just pray the final edit was smoother and all the jumbled, sketchy nature of the story was smoothed out.
In summary: A series that has potential but not one I can see myself returning to to find out.
Okay, from my score you might guess I didn’t exactly enjoy this book and I really really want to apologise to Ms Cox Bryan here and now as I don’t want her to think my review is all mean and nasty. As what I’m about to say is meant as constructive criticism and not some bitchy attack or spiteful meanness. If you don’t agree with what I’m about to say, please remember the magical mantra: “Pfffft, what would SHE know!”
We good? ;-)
So… I am going to state again that the copy of the book I read was an ARC and that I was invited by Kensington to read it… I did not go out of my way to seek it down and pick on it. In fact, when I initially saw it in Netgalley I skipped past as I wasn’t too sure how I’d go as I’d read the first book, felt it had some jitters and issues I was willing to put down to first book in the series stage fright and try again. I mean, I simply love the setting, the house, the concept of craft retreats. If this was real and in my area I would be there every other day… if it wasn’t for all the murders. ;-)
And I am also going to blame the fact it was an ARC on a lot of the flaws I found… ARCs are not the finished product; they are going to contain clangers. And I will also state here and now that it is my firm belief that these clangers were all sorted out before the finished book was published… Well, it is my firm hope they were.
I am not going to painstakingly list and nit-pick each issue I found. I mean, there was the usual wrong word used (or left out completely) and, hey, I am a typo Queen so never judge people on that.
But when people’s names are spelt a few different ways depending on where in the book they are mentioned… I do get a bit huffy. Then when people change who they are (we swapped from Jane to Cora at one point then back again)… this is poor editing. But - it was an ARC!
I guess what really got me was the way people were one place then suddenly another with no explanation. Holed up way out in the boonies and then in a bed and breakfast. At school but asleep at home? The days and time of days kept swapping about too and, yeah, I got a little frowny at that level of lack of editing/proofing, even for an ARC.
Also, the black and white world the characters seemed to live in. It was either this or that. Nothing else. People were either this way or that way - no grey in between. All depressed people just can’t be trusted, especially around children as they are a risk. Quick, tell my kids! I am a risk despite my Zoloft! And the main characters also came across as quite shallow would go from totally emotionless to OTT emotions and reactions to things within a paragraph and then back again. Anxiety and abuse issues are okay and natural as they have them, but other forms of mental illness or physical issues are alien and negative?
I honestly almost put this book into my DNF (Did Not Finish) pile four or five times as it was just a big jumble of a mess. One moment it would be going well and then all the jumping about, black and white, clanger filled writing would be back. As with the first book, it was almost as if two people were writing this book and only one of them was actually a decent writer.
The story jumped about and, although I guessed the ‘bad guy’ pretty much right away, the end of the book held no true explanation or reasoning behind it. More that the whole crime side of the book sounded like a good idea at the time, but that it wasn’t executed that well and seemed to clash with the cosy craft side. It was like two ideas smooshed together and they didn’t mix as well as possible or hoped.
And this is where Ms Cox Bryan, all her friends and fans will now be hitting the dislike and cussing me. Just don’t get the effigies alight if you are in a total fire ban area okay? ;-) I am so sorry to be so critical of ‘No Charm Intended’ and I feel it got to me so much as the setting, characters, story concept, etc is perfect for the cosy crime/ mystery genre. I guess I am just grumpy as I see so much potential and talent ruined by some poor editing, quite frankly, sloppy writing. Please forgive me.
Would I recommend this book to others?
I am really torn here as I just don’t know. The first book in this series had a few issues, but rather than those issues being resolved and improved upon in the second book, they’ve gotten worse. So as much as I see a LOT of positives and potential in not just ‘No Charm Intended’ but the whole ‘A Cora Crafts Mystery’ series… I don’t think I could personally face another book in this series and so just don’t know if I could safely recommend them to others.
Would I buy this book for myself?
Pretty sure we all know the answer to that question. If it was of the same quality as the ARC I received, then no I wouldn’t. I just pray the final edit was smoother and all the jumbled, sketchy nature of the story was smoothed out.
In summary: A series that has potential but not one I can see myself returning to to find out.
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